As in many relationships, there'll probably be a bit more resistance to the "sex" part of the equation as the ELCA prepares to take up various questions regarding homosexuality among its clergy and lay members. However, enough of ELCA is so thoroughly besotted with the spirit of the age, particularly regarding sexual deviance, that the orgy will likely grow unchecked.

Most of the world probably focuses on this latter issue. However, the former is just as telling as we consider ELCA's doctrinal fidelity (or lack thereof). Throughout the 1800s until less than 100 years ago, the parents and other ancestors of many of these delegates probably considered Methodism and its Arminian theology alien and repugnant. Now two bodies with historically opposing understandings of the Lord's Supper, grace, sanctification, and other major doctrinal issues have bulldozed any denominators not held in common. And the UMC — somehow able to still make ELCA look a tiny bit conservative by comparison — will have increasing theological influence upon the ELCA. Included in this would be the UMC's even greater tolerance, acceptance, and encouragement of homosexual expression among its members.

Bottom line: The UMC should be able to accelerate ELCA's ongoing exodus from the land of Christian orthodoxy. Already, I can hardly see them for the dust.

Somebody remind me again why the Missouri Synod wants to cooperate in any way with ELCA.